Although
you may be thinking of ways to splurge with your tax refund, the Car
Care Council recommends something more practical – invest some of
that money in auto care and reap the financial benefits.
According
to the Internal Revenue Service, the average tax refund is over
$3,100. By simply allocating a portion to vehicle maintenance and
service, you will realize big dividends in the form of safety and
dependability. The benefits of auto care don’t stop there. Your
vehicle will perform more efficiently, saving money at the pump, and
its useful life will be extended, postponing the major expense of
purchasing a new car.
With
proper care, the typical vehicle should deliver at least 200,000
miles of safe, dependable performance. The most common routine
maintenance procedures and repairs include checking the oil, filters
and fluids, belts and hoses, brakes, tires and the HVAC system. The
non-profit Car Care Council also recommends an annual tune-up and
wheel alignment.